Give It a Shot

Annual run features the world's best incentive: beer.

Winking Lizards A Shot in the Dark doesnt have a whole lot in common with other local runs. For one thing, the annual fave doesnt begin till after 5 p.m. -- not first thing in the morning like most sweat-breakers. And participants are greeted at the finish line with a beer garden and live music. This race feels more like entertainment to a lot of people, rather than an all-out competitive event, says spokesman Nick Swingos. People who could care less about competing show up. A Shot in the Dark includes a four-mile run, a two-person team run, and a two-mile family walk. Contestants receive commemorative T-shirts, goodie bags, and sandwiches -- but its the after-party that makes it all worth the effort. We like that people think of it as entertaining exercise, says Swingos. A party at the end of the race seems like the perfect incentive to finish.
Sat., July 21, 5:20 p.m.